China Trade Talks Flag 500-Jet Boeing Order as NASA Rejects $2.8B Upper Stage
China and U.S. trade officials preparing talks in Paris are drafting a deal that would include nearly 500 Boeing jets, aiming to restore bilateral commercial growth. Separately, NASA is evaluating United Launch Alliance’s Centaur V to replace Boeing’s Exploration Upper Stage after its costs ballooned above $2.8 billion and ran into delays.
1. China Trade Talks Could Drive Boeing Jet Sales
U.S. and Chinese trade representatives are convening in Paris next weekend to draft a new bilateral agreement expected to include a purchase of nearly 500 Boeing commercial aircraft. Securing this order would bolster Boeing’s commercial backlog, enhance revenue visibility, and signal a thaw in trade tensions following last year’s one-year tariff pause.
2. NASA Evaluates ULA Centaur V Over Boeing Upper Stage
NASA is weighing United Launch Alliance’s Centaur V stage for upcoming Artemis missions after Boeing’s Exploration Upper Stage incurred cost overruns exceeding $2.8 billion and missed key delivery milestones. Adoption of the Centaur V could standardize launch vehicle configurations and control program costs, though final procurement choices will affect Boeing’s aerospace segment outlook.